NFL brings John Madden back as 'special advisor' to Roger Goodell

He's gone from the NBC TV booth, but John Madden will still have a prominent role with the NFL this season.

Commissioner Roger Goodell announced today he has appointed madden an unpaid "special advisor."

"John Madden still has tremendous passion for the game and offered to continue to play a constructive role for the league," Goodell said in a statement. "It was an offer we couldn't refuse. His experience, deep knowledge and unique perspective will be a major asset to our game."

Goodell will consult Madden, a Hall of Fame coach, on competitive issues and others including coaching, personnel, technology and player safety.

Madden will participate in a weekly call with Goodell or another NFL official to give feedback on each week's games.

"Throughout my life, I have always had a football season," Madden said in a statement. "As a player, as a coach, and as a broadcaster. When I retired from broadcasting, I didn't retire from my passion and interest in the game. This position enables me to continue that." -- Sean Leahy

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About Nate Davis

Nate Davis is a reporter, blogger and editor who's been at USA TODAY since 2000. He has covered the NFL since 2005. No, he did not play quarterback for Ball State. Davis' succession of our esteemed colleague Sean Leahy at The Huddle is considered a Brady-for-Bledsoe swap by most "insiders."More about Nate